Median Earnings (1yr)
$44,453
71st percentile (60th in WI)
Median Debt
$27,000
4% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.61
Manageable
Sample Size
128
Adequate data

Analysis

UW-Oshkosh's teacher education program produces graduates earning above both the national median and matching the Wisconsin median, landing at the 71st percentile nationally—solid performance for an accessible state school. The $27,000 debt load sits well below typical borrowing for education majors, making this one of the more affordable paths into teaching. With a robust sample size of 100+ graduates, these numbers are reliable. However, earnings actually slip slightly from $44,453 to $43,352 over four years, reflecting the reality that many teachers hit salary schedules early and see limited growth without additional credentials or leadership roles.

The value proposition here is straightforward: you're getting middle-of-the-pack results for Wisconsin at a price point that won't burden your child with excessive debt. The 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable in education, where loan forgiveness programs may apply. Still, it's worth noting that the top programs in Wisconsin—Wisconsin Lutheran, Carthage, and UW-Madison—produce graduates earning $1,400 to $5,000 more annually, which compounds significantly over a career.

For families prioritizing affordability and staying in-state, UW-Oshkosh delivers competent preparation for the classroom without financial strain. Just understand that teaching salaries plateau quickly, and this program positions graduates right at the Wisconsin average rather than ahead of it.

Where University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods bachelors's programs nationally

University of Wisconsin-OshkoshOther teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh graduates earn $44k, placing them in the 71th percentile of all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (27 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh$44,453$43,352$27,0000.61
Wisconsin Lutheran College$49,485—$27,0000.55
Carthage College$47,185$42,777$25,9540.55
Edgewood College$46,458$46,347$27,0000.58
University of Wisconsin-Madison$45,906$45,157$23,0000.50
Marquette University$45,806$46,059$23,2500.51
National Median$41,809—$26,0000.62

Other Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Programs in Wisconsin

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Wisconsin schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Milwaukee
$35,080$49,485$27,000
Carthage College
Kenosha
$36,500$47,185$25,954
Edgewood College
Madison
$34,850$46,458$27,000
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison
$11,205$45,906$23,000
Marquette University
Milwaukee
$48,700$45,806$23,250

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, approximately 16% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 128 graduates with reported earnings and 125 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.